we do need to be able to consistently write easily maintainable code that can be correctly understood at first glance.

Why?

Would you trust

a lawyer that took one glance at the deeds to your new house and entreated you to sign on the dotted line?

a judge that took one glance at the charge sheet and moved directly to sentencing?

a doctor that took one glance at your Xray and gave you his diagnosis?

a surveyor that took one glance at the site plans and concluded that the drainage was adequate?

An engineer that took one glance at the blueprints for a new braking system and concluded that they were safe?

The source code of a program is the software equivalent of these documents; they are at least as complex, and should require at least as much effort on behalf of the reader as those other documents before rushing to judgements or conclusions.

With the rise and rise of 'Social' network sites: 'Computers are making people easier to use everyday'

Examine what is said, not who speaks -- Silence betokens consent -- Love the truth but pardon error.

"Science is about questioning the status quo. Questioning authority".

In the absence of evidence, opinion is indistinguishable from prejudice.